admin Grand Prix weekend is fast approaching, and tens of thousands of spectators are expected to flock to Montréal.
The three-day Formula 1 Canadian Grand Prix is the largest sporting event in the country.
“It’s a big weekend,” city spokesperson Philippe Sabourin told reporters Tuesday.
“On Friday, Saturday and Sunday, we’re expecting merely 100,000 people per day are going to the event.”
Montréal is preparing for the annual race, and officials are strongly advising fans to leave their cars at home. There will be no parking available for the thousands of spectators at Circuit Gilles Villeneuve.
“Forget about it,” Sabourin said, emphasising there will be “no way” for ticket holders to park on either Île Notre-Dame or neighbouring Île Sainte-Hélène.
Cabs are an option, he added, but the best way to reach the Grand Prix is by public transit, biking, or walking, as he knows the traffic will be heavy on the Jacques-Cartier Bridge.
“The best piece of advice coming from the city is to take public transit, plan your moves and enjoy the festivities during the weekend,” Sabourin said.
There will be additional police officers to help manage traffic. The Société de transport de Montréal (STM), the city’s public transit authority, will also deploy extra buses and Metro services.
“The service will be increased according to the needs,” STM spokesperson Isabelle Tremblay said.
Montréal’s downtown core will be bustling this weekend, with a family-friendly festival planned for Crescent Street. The celebrations will begin on Thursday morning.
Glenn Castanheira, executive director of Montréal Centre-Ville, stated that the Grand Prix significantly benefits downtown restaurateurs and businesses.
“The buzz is fantastic,” he said in an interview.
However, anyone attempting to find last-minute accommodations might struggle, according to Castanheira. Most hotels are already fully booked for the entire weekend.
“If you’re looking for a hotel his weekend in downtown Montreal, good luck,” Castanheira said.
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